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When You Are Facing Drunk Driving Charges In Iowa City

Last updated on August 30, 2024

Anyone charged with OWI in Iowa has a lot on the line — in many cases, far more than they realize. The impact of drunk driving (sometimes called DUI or DWI) can be both immediately devastating and a long-term barrier to achieving vital goals in life. Finding dedicated, informed legal counsel is critical.

If you have been charged with operating while intoxicated (OWI) or another alcohol-related offense, please learn all the potential consequences before deciding how to proceed. You need sound and knowledgeable professional advice right away. Our dedicated, resourceful Iowa criminal defense attorney are just one call away and here to serve you.

Focused Protection For Your Rights

With several decades of experience, Iowa City DUI attorneys Shawn Fitzgerald and David Burbidge are thoroughly versed in current laws and defense strategies. At our firm, each client receives frank, clear counsel directed toward sound decision-making. We provide:

  • Accurate information on all potential consequences of an Iowa OWI, which can include serious damage to educational and job prospects as well as a lengthy driver’s license suspension and jail time
  • Personalized guidance tailored to each individual’s most important concerns, such as loss of financial aid and “add-on” penalties in the home states of college students arrested in Iowa
  • Exploration of all viable options for avoiding conviction and a criminal record or minimizing consequences, from fighting the charge aggressively in court to negotiating with the prosecutor for a manageable outcome

These services we will provide for you. You may have made a mistake, but you are still entitled to the best defense possible.

Our criminal defense experience throughout Iowa City and the surrounding area has taught us the value of a strong defense and personalized care. When representing you, we will be there from the initial arraignment until the final resolution. We will help you understand your every legal option. We will listen to your concerns and fight for the best possible outcome.

What Happens If You’re Caught Driving On A Suspended License?

Driving with a suspended driver’s license is a misdemeanor criminal offense in Iowa. You may be fined $1,500 and spend up to a year in prison. Additionally, your existing driver’s license suspension period could double, or you may be permanently stripped of your driving privileges. 

What Are The Penalties For Boating Under The Influence In Iowa?

Boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs is the same as driving a car in the eyes of the law, so the same penalties apply. For a first-time OWI in Iowa, the penalties could include up to a one-year prison sentence, a fine of $1,250, and a 180-day driver’s license suspension period. The penalties grow more severe with each subsequent offense.

How Do OWI/DUI Penalties Differ For Underage Drivers?

Drivers under 21 cannot legally have a blood alcohol content (BAC) exceeding .02%. If they do, and it’s their first offense, they’ll lose their driver’s license for 60 days. That period extends to 90 days for subsequent offenses. If their BAC is under .08, they will incur no other penalties. If it is, the same penalties for drivers who are of age apply.

Will Your License Be Suspended?

If you get convicted of drunk driving in Iowa, it is almost certain that your driver’s license will be suspended. You can also lose your license for a year if you refuse to comply with chemical testing after being arrested for OWI, in addition to being fined $200. However, you may be able to get a restricted license if you install an ignition interlock device on your car. With a restricted license, you will be able to drive to go to work and fulfill other essential duties. If you work with our firm, we will strive to protect your driving privileges. 

How Our Experience Helps

Our lawyers’ knowledge and capabilities cover the spectrum of first-time, repeat and aggravated drunk driving offenses. Whatever the charge and whatever the specific circumstances, we work every angle to earn the best achievable outcome.

Please contact us as soon as possible for the legal guidance and representation you need in this pivotal time. At Johnston, Stannard, Klesner, Burbidge & Fitzgerald, P.L.C., we will prioritize your case and deliver the personal attention you deserve. Reaching us is easy. Just dial 319-359-6492 .